Disneyland at Christmas/Holiday Season Superthread #3!- HOLIDAYS BEGIN 11/12/13!!

Status
Not open for further replies.
I was back in the room by 6:29pm this evening. We left the park around 2:30 after RSR had broken down again. From 2:30 to 6:29, we visited a friend at her lovely new house and ate dinner. The ride broke down while my DH and son were trying to do the single rider. They had to go back later and try again. Then, it broke down when it was time to redeem the fastpasses we collected this morning. We had the same bad luck with Indy in October. It was down all three times were tried to ride it at very different hours and days. At least we made it to RSR once though.

The crowds are less than I expected. It rained on and off while we were out today, so that was probably the reason for low crowds. Disneyland started to get really busy just as we were hopping over to California Adventure yesterday. Of course, New Orleans Square was packed as usual. The rest was very manageable.

We enjoyed the Holiday Tour and all the goodies that came with it. They were unwilling to print my two year olds Holiday button, which was disappointing. I knew they only did it as a courtesy to others and it is not included, so I did not press the issue. Haunted Mansion Holiday was broken when our tour group reached it. They gave us "fastpasses" to return later. When we returned, the lady stated the ride did not have a fastpass. She did let us in with the "fastpass" though. After waiting for quite some time to board the Jingle Cruise, we were told we were sharing a boat with another tour group. Getting their 21 plus our 19 was not happening, so we were split from our guide. It was odd, but our driver was AMAZING. Connor loved him.

We were forced to wait so long at IASWH that we would have boarded faster in the regular line (no joke). We did make it just in time to be seated as the band was being announced. I was not even situated in the chair to take pictures. Had HMH not been broken, we might have missed part of the parade or a different part of the tour. Our guide was so spectacular (Emily) that Xander fell in love. We actually ran into her giving a VIP tour to a lucky boy named Ian celebrating his birthday today. That made Xander's day, because he was just telling me this morning how much he missed her.

There was a lot of great information on the tour. The marshmallow was great and the gingerbread was even okay (I am not a fan in general). I love the cup the hot chocolate came in even though I did not drink the hot chocolate (not a fan of that either). The best part was when they gave Connor a cookie and pin at the end stating they had extras. Take that button man! Just joking. He was in the same group who offered the extra cookie and was actually very nice.

After the tour, we got fastpasses for Roger Rabbit. It was down very time we tried to ride it though. We went to Carthay Circle for Xander's 7th birthday dinner last night. After waiting a while for our food, the restaurant was evacuated because white lights were flashing (assuming that was a fire alarm but no one ever told us). We waited outside a long time before they let us back in. I am assuming they started cooking everything from scratch once we returned, because it took a long time again to get the food. They brought us another bread while we waited (without asking because our server was great). The only problem was it was burned, lol. I joked that may be what set off the fire alarm. Then again, it may have been burned because it was cooking when we were evacuated. More than two and a half hours after entering, we were finally done with dinner. We were offered fastpasses for the 10:15 showing of WoC for our delay, but we already had tickets to see the 9:00pm show (which I loved by the way). I like the original version better, but this was nice for Christmas. I will not book a WoC package there, because I want the steak. That is not on the limited menu.

It was our second time eating there (the first was just after opening). We did not like the food either time, but I wanted to give it another try, since opening week they are still working out bugs. My steak was so rubbery the knife could not cut through it. I asked the server if they had a sharper knife, but they did not. The cake we ordered was the worst ever too. We did not even take it to go, because we knew we did not want anymore. That was the most expensive meal (including the $52 cake) I have ever eaten that I did not enjoy. We're from Vegas too, so Disney prices are cheap compared to the strip. Our restaurants are just way better, so they're worth the added cost.

Despite the rain, so many broken rides and being evacuated from Xander's birthday dinner, we are having a fantastic time. Wish us luck that we get to see the Candlelight Processional tomorrow. I just could not get DH back into the park to try today. Looking forward to meeting Sherry tomorrow.

I have a reservation at Carnation Cafe on Monday at 8:30, but the park doesn't open til 9. How does that work?
I have one for 7:30 tomorrow when the park opens at 8. I am assuming the early breakfast line to the far left will be open. If it is not, I will report back tomorrow.

Just wanted to report the CP tonight was AWESOME!!! Thank goodness the weather cleared up. Blair Underwood was excellent. When the soloist does Noche de Paz, it gets me every time. We waited for two hours before the CP, but it was worth it. We got a good spot. Sherry I hope you feel well enough to go tomorrow. At least it won't be raining. This was my perfect ending for my trip. We're going back to the cold and snow tomorrow. :sad:

Did you watch the 5:30 or the 8? Do you just stand in Town Square waiting for the start? I am thinking of seriously investing the time tomorrow. I am betting two hours will work for the 8, but I am wondering if the 5:30 needs more time. DH probably will not let us stay until 8.
 
I have one for 7:30 tomorrow when the park opens at 8. I am assuming the early breakfast line to the far left will be open. If it is not, I will report back tomorrow.

Thanks, I wasn't sure if there was a separate line or not. We haven't had reservations before park opening before.
 
Did you watch the 5:30 or the 8? Do you just stand in Town Square waiting for the start? I am thinking of seriously investing the time tomorrow. I am betting two hours will work for the 8, but I am wondering if the 5:30 needs more time. DH probably will not let us stay until 8.

We went to the 5:30. Waited on the right side of Town Square (fire engine side). You will see everyone else waiting, so there won't be any confusion. We ended up right behind the ropes were the chairs were set up and facing the stage. Would have stayed for the second show, but my feet hurt from standing pretty much in the same place for three hours. If you can, stay and enjoy.
 
I kind of wanted to try and see it as did DH however after dinner and a 7 hour drive we were toast by 8pm. We did have a surprise, staying at Hotel Indigo (formerly Holiday Inn Express on Katella) which we LOVE BTW, we heard fireworks and looked outside our window.. We could see them all!! It was a huge surprise as we were not aware there were even fireworks views rooms and only requested a top floor which we were granted, actually a studio suite!

Fireworks from Hotel Indigo 4th floor(top floor)

20131207_213425_zps61d297f3.jpg


20131207_213424_zps88b4236b.jpg


20131207_213408_zps8e4c8d2a.jpg




This very much took the sting out of having to change hotels from the DLH and everyone has been wonderful!
 

Today was our first day! We spent it at CA because of the CP. The rain wasn't fun, but it really wasn't that bad. The good part was it really cleared out the crowds. I had rainboots, raincoats, and a stroller cover for the girls, so they were fine. My DH and I are originally from the Northeast, so we don't mind getting a little wet and weren't really bothered. I took my littlest back for an afternoon nap at 1:00, and the rain had stopped by then and the sun was out. The park was still uncrowded though, so my DH and DD4 were able to do a bunch of rides. We came back around 3, and we all did a bunch of shows and rides until the girls were done around 9:30. The crowds were great. I'd put up with the small amount of rain every day if it meant such low crowds! It really wasn't cold, either.

The rain did cause them to cancel the Viva Navidad parades, which was a bummer. Hoping to see it tomorrow. CA is decorated so nicely for Christmas. I'm really enjoying it!

Just a couple notes: the hot chocolate at Paradise Garden Grill for Viva Navidad is yummy! Much better than the usual stuff you get that tastes quite watery. I had two cups today. My DH had the fish from that same menu, and he thought it was all right, but expensive for the portion size.

The Christmas ornaments at all the different stores are really spectacular this year. They have so many different ones.

I caught WOC with my youngest. I just stood holding her right outside Ariel's ride (which is what we had been headed to) and we watched almost the whole thing. I liked the beginning, and the song from Frozen is so pretty. Very emotional. But then it switched to more amusing than beautiful with Toy Story and what's his face from Frozen (haven't seen the movie yet), and we lost interest. I finally asked my DD if she wanted to stay and she said no. Granted, she's 23 months, but I rather shared her feelings, and I really love shows.
 
As mentioned yesterday, I am fine. I'm feeling fine. No problems now. However, the cold air combined with being around someone who is sick may be a problem for me so I have to be really careful because I will be at DLR for several days, and if I get sick now it will ruin the rest of my trip (I've been through it before and I know how I respond when I get sick). I don't have an option of not going. I have to go -- I have a hotel booked and people depending on me to show up for Club 33!

I am in massive 'crunch mode' now, frantically doing last minute things to get ready. I am out of here in just over 90 minutes. I will try to check in if I can within the next day or two, if I am able. If not, I'm back on Thursday.

In the meantime... Please note that we are running low on pages in this thread. It has to be closed when it hits page 250 and I don't want to have to do that while I am at DLR (I'm not back until Thursday). I'd rather handle it when I get home.

Please be sure to try not to double or triple post. For example, Kim/kmedina just posted 3 times in a row -- which I merged into one post. When you double or triple post it makes the pages go by faster, and thus, the thread hits the page limit faster. If you think of something else you need to say after you've just posted, simply edit your post and add it in. Thanks!:goodvibes
 
Thanks guys for the holiday tour reviews. Iam so excited to get on THREE rides with this tour AND get the parade seats!! Invaluable seeing as we are only there Christmas eve and day!! Busy busy busy! :)

I wish they were a bit more front of line though. reports seem to suggest still a wait. We have a ressie at rainforest café after the tour at 6.45pm. Parade starts 5.30. is this OK or shall I mve the ressie to 7pm?

Sherry have a FANTASTIC Time!!!:cool1:
 
Thanks, I wasn't sure if there was a separate line or not. We haven't had reservations before park opening before.

We arrived to the pre opening line on time but no one arrived until 7:43. She said the restaurant itself is supposed to send someone up to open the line but never did. Then, she said she could not let us enter until after the park opening ceremony (which was underwhelming). By the time we entered, the regular lines had entered as well. It was almost 7:50 before we and the huge line of others approached the restaurant. Hopefully, the representative arrives for you tomorrow.

When we told the staff at the restaurant why we were all late, they all looked puzzled. One CM even said he would have gone of he knew someone needed to.
 
kmedina thanks for the review of your tour!

As mentioned yesterday, I am fine. I'm feeling fine. No problems now. However, the cold air combined with being around someone who is sick may be a problem for me so I have to be really careful because I will be at DLR for several days, and if I get sick now it will ruin the rest of my trip (I've been through it before and I know how I respond when I get sick). I don't have an option of not going. I have to go -- I have a hotel booked and people depending on me to show up for Club 33!

I am in massive 'crunch mode' now, frantically doing last minute things to get ready. I am out of here in just over 90 minutes. I will try to check in if I can within the next day or two, if I am able. If not, I'm back on Thursday.

In the meantime... Please note that we are running low on pages in this thread. It has to be closed when it hits page 250 and I don't want to have to do that while I am at DLR (I'm not back until Thursday). I'd rather handle it when I get home.

Please be sure to try not to double or triple post. For example, Kim/kmedina just posted 3 times in a row -- which I merged into one post. When you double or triple post it makes the pages go by faster, and thus, the thread hits the page limit faster. If you think of something else you need to say after you've just posted, simply edit your post and add it in. Thanks!:goodvibes

Sherry have a GREAT time. Use hand sanitizer and stay away from your friend that is ill...I'm going to vicariously see Club 33 through your report.


King Arthur Carousel by KC MikeD, on Flickr

Have a blast today at Club 33 Sherry E!

Mike, once again in awe of your skill as a photographer. Thanks for sharing!

We leave for DL a week from today! Our twin sons graduate from college on Saturday and we leave the next morning. Can't wait!!
 
Having a great time! Rain was a bummer and it's cold! But it's so beautiful! Waiting for CO now!
 
Mike, once again in awe of your skill as a photographer. Thanks for sharing!

We leave for DL a week from today! Our sons graduate from college on Saturday and we leave the next morning. Can't wait!!

Thanks so much. I hope you all have a great time there! Congrats on your son graduating from College. What an accomplishment and what an awesome reward the next day!
 
We saw Daisy Duck today! She was at the pier in DCA in her Christmas outfit. She was so sweet with DS3. He just loved her. She and Alice have been his favorites so far.
 
We're all packed up and ready to go home tomorrow. :(

I never rode the carousel! I rode King Triton's today but somehow missed the big one in DLR. We did so much and saw so much this trip I am so happy and am totally in love with Disneyland. The only thing keeping me returning to Orlando is the newest addition to the Harry Potter area at Universal. Otherwise, I think we both prefer the more intimate feel of Disneyland and DCA.

I'll be doing a trip report when we return. We did get to see Candlelight Processional at 5:30 today. I can't believe my hubby didn't complain one time. We arrived at 2:15 and nabbed a spot in front of the Opera House. As a matter of fact, I was right by the mailbox there. We were right behind the curb so i had a clear view of Mr. Russell and managed to video tape with my smaller camera. We were able to sit in our spots until 4:45 then we had to stand (although Steve stood the entire time). I agree the soloist singing Silent Night (the non-English version) was the highlight of the show.

It was nice to meet Janet, Kim, and Sherry! I agree with you, Kim, on your meal at Carthay Circle. We ordered the pot sticker appetizer which was fabulous....but I ordered the Sole for my entree and it was flat and way way too greasy for such a nice restaurant. Steve had the Tempura Shrimp, which he did like. It looked nice and light....but I have a shellfish allergy so I couldn't speak personally about it. We had a great table and really enjoyed the tour there at 10:30. If I were to ever go back I would just order a couple of the appetizers.

I'm envious of everyone's trip coming up. Fortunately we'll be back in March and I'll have all the days free while hubby attends a work related training. It's nice to have another Disney trip to look forward to!
 
I hate vacation induced insomnia! After a marathon Sunday of visiting Santa, 3 trips to the store and finally packing (all packing done yesterday, my 1st trimester pregnancy exhaustion got the best of me and I didn't plan ahead at all besides making my packing list) I got to bed just after 10pm, slept solid until 3:30 and then BAM! Alarm wasn't set until 6am, ugh. I stayed in bed as long as I could, writing things down on my list but at 5:30 I decided 30 more minutes of rest wouldn't really do me any good so up I am to check email & Disboards before packing it all away. Flight is on time, weather forecast for the week is good (minimal chance for rain), just have to get ready and pack a few last minute items and we are off!

I doubt I'll be on this board much between now & when we return (bringing DH's work laptop and he'll probably actually have to work). But wanted to shout out a big thank you to all the contributors and of course our fearless leader/moderator Sherry.
 
We're here! We surprised the kids at the airport yesterday. We had told them were going to see Frozen, and then when we got to the airport, told them that we were really going to DL. Our son thought we were joking, and our seven year old was just concerned about whether we would see the movie. :rotfl: We ended up seeing it in Downtown Disney last night and loved it, my daughter said it was her favorite princess movie ever (it was also the most expensive movie ever lol). On the walk back she said, "It just feels so good to be here, I really missed Disneyland". :lovestruc First park day today, can't wait! It's also my husbands birthday, we'll have his bday lunch at BB. :)
 
I hate vacation induced insomnia! After a marathon Sunday of visiting Santa, 3 trips to the store and finally packing (all packing done yesterday, my 1st trimester pregnancy exhaustion got the best of me and I didn't plan ahead at all besides making my packing list) I got to bed just after 10pm, slept solid until 3:30 and then BAM! Alarm wasn't set until 6am, ugh. I stayed in bed as long as I could, writing things down on my list but at 5:30 I decided 30 more minutes of rest wouldn't really do me any good so up I am to check email & Disboards before packing it all away. Flight is on time, weather forecast for the week is good (minimal chance for rain), just have to get ready and pack a few last minute items and we are off!

I doubt I'll be on this board much between now & when we return (bringing DH's work laptop and he'll probably actually have to work). But wanted to shout out a big thank you to all the contributors and of course our fearless leader/moderator Sherry.

Have a great trip! Warmer weather is on the way....about the time we leave!

We are having a great time. Kathy was an angel and got us ap passes to woc Friday night.w say down in the wry zone and loved it.

Got to meet Sherry, Kathy and Kim yesterday. I really brought things full circle after hanging out here on this thread all year.

Sherry i hope you have the best trip ever. You deserve it. Thank you for all that you do!

We rode California screamin six times at ee in 38 degree weather. We are about to go do the same with TOT.
 
We're all packed up and ready to go home tomorrow. :(

I never rode the carousel! I rode King Triton's today but somehow missed the big one in DLR. We did so much and saw so much this trip I am so happy and am totally in love with Disneyland. The only thing keeping me returning to Orlando is the newest addition to the Harry Potter area at Universal. Otherwise, I think we both prefer the more intimate feel of Disneyland and DCA.

I'll be doing a trip report when we return. We did get to see Candlelight Processional at 5:30 today. I can't believe my hubby didn't complain one time. We arrived at 2:15 and nabbed a spot in front of the Opera House. As a matter of fact, I was right by the mailbox there. We were right behind the curb so i had a clear view of Mr. Russell and managed to video tape with my smaller camera. We were able to sit in our spots until 4:45 then we had to stand (although Steve stood the entire time). I agree the soloist singing Silent Night (the non-English version) was the highlight of the show.

It was nice to meet Janet, Kim, and Sherry! I agree with you, Kim, on your meal at Carthay Circle. We ordered the pot sticker appetizer which was fabulous....but I ordered the Sole for my entree and it was flat and way way too greasy for such a nice restaurant. Steve had the Tempura Shrimp, which he did like. It looked nice and light....but I have a shellfish allergy so I couldn't speak personally about it. We had a great table and really enjoyed the tour there at 10:30. If I were to ever go back I would just order a couple of the appetizers.

I'm envious of everyone's trip coming up. Fortunately we'll be back in March and I'll have all the days free while hubby attends a work related training. It's nice to have another Disney trip to look forward to!

Let us know when you start the trip report! I'd love to follow along.

We're here! We surprised the kids at the airport yesterday. We had told them were going to see Frozen, and then when we got to the airport, told them that we were really going to DL. Our son thought we were joking, and our seven year old was just concerned about whether we would see the movie. :rotfl: We ended up seeing it in Downtown Disney last night and loved it, my daughter said it was her favorite princess movie ever (it was also the most expensive movie ever lol). On the walk back she said, "It just feels so good to be here, I really missed Disneyland". :lovestruc First park day today, can't wait! It's also my husbands birthday, we'll have his bday lunch at BB. :)

I can't imagine being able to keep this a secret or the joy that telling the kiddos that we're going to Disneyland. Does anyone else tear up at the commercial videos showing this??

We loved the movie too!

TK
 
We are on the freeway on our way home. 3 days in the park is just never enough. I needed my Disney fix and will take whatever I can get. We got out annual passes so we will be back in Feb and April

We have been going during the holiday season for the past 10 years and it didn't feel as "Christmassy" or as "magical" as it always is. I am not sure what it is. I did notice a lot of areas that did not play Christmas music.

I can't wait to come back. This is always a sad day for me.
 
Sorry for the triple post, Sherry. I just do not know how to edit whilst adding quotes. If I do not quote, I wonder of the intended target will see it rather than skipping as my review was long winded. The answer is to read everything before I reply. That should solve the problem. As I am sitting outside the transformers ride, I have not read everything yet. If I read more I need to respond to, I will come back and edit this post.

I had a great time meeting Sherry, Janet and Kathy. They were all a delight.

My plan for the processional was to head up just before the 5:30 show ended and nab a spot for the 8:00pm. My husband had different plans. He thought we could head up at 4:30 and catch the 5:30 (delusional, I know). We were rerouted through one way traffic and fixed to go up the other side. I noticed people lining Main Street. We were told that the processional would pass by. We could sit there until it passed (to watch) but we would have to leave as soon as it passed (so much for my plan to hang there and nab an 8:00 spot. Watching the processional pass by was neat. After listening to my husband complain abut waiting for the 8:00 nonstop, we decided to leave the park just before 6pm. Foot traffic was very slow going on the way out, so I saw a couple minutes of the show. Unless I go solo, it does not look like I will get to watch a processional. I am happy for and jealous of those who did watch.

For those who plan to watch the 8:00 next year, there were still curbside seats about 15 minutes to watch the 5:30 processional (on the right side with the smaller curbside sectioned off in front of the ropes. The bigger side filled a little over 30 minutes out). I would suggest hanging out near Main Street (but not on because they will not let you). As soon as the 5:30 show ends, walk briskly in. Enjoy.
 
Status
Not open for further replies.




New Posts









Receive up to $1,000 in Onboard Credit and a Gift Basket!
That’s right — when you book your Disney Cruise with Dreams Unlimited Travel, you’ll receive incredible shipboard credits to spend during your vacation!
CLICK HERE






DIS Facebook DIS youtube DIS Instagram DIS Pinterest DIS Tiktok DIS Twitter DIS Bluesky

Back
Top Bottom